The After School Safety and Education (ASES) grant provides the funds for these programs allowing children to participate at no charge. There are attendance requirements of participants, however, that must be adhered to by participants in order to comply with the grant regulations. The grants limit the number of children who may be served.

We offer a fee based program in conjunction with the grant funded program which offers flexibility in creating an afterschool program that meets individual families’ needs. Parents are able to choose the days and times of attendance on a pre-arranged basis. Minimum two days per week. Reasonable weekly fee. For more information please contact us at 431-3301.

Building permit inspections may be scheduled by calling the Building Department at 707/431-3348 during office hours. You will be greeted by a staff member who will schedule your inspection for the next day or up to one week in advance (no same day inspections). As the schedule allows you will be given a choice between early morning, late morning or afternoon.

Building Department staff cannot make such recommendations. However, there are many well qualified and reputable local builders and designers. Ask the builder or designer for several references and ask to see samples of previous work. Also check online at:

Requests for refunds must be made in writing by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent and include a statement requesting that the application or permit be cancel or withdraw. California Building Code Section 109.6 authorizes the Building Official to establish a refund policy. The Building Official authorizes refunding not more than 80 percent of the plan review fee paid when an application is withdrawn or cancelled before any plan review is performed. The Building Official authorizes refunding not more than 80 percent of the; building, plumbing, electrical, and/or mechanical permit fee paid when no work has been performed under the permit.

Building permits which require plan review are given an initial three-week review time period, after which the project will either be approved or comments from the City will be sent out to the applicant for required changes to the construction documents. If a resubmittal is required, the turnaround time for the 2nd review is reduced to two-weeks.

If you have questions regarding what stage of plan review your permit is at, please contact the Building Department for (707)431-3346.

If you want to build a fence over seven feet tall the Building Department requires a permit.

The Planning Division administers the Healdsburg Land Use Code and has several additional restrictions on the location and height of fences. If you have questions and need additional information please contact the Planning Department at (707)431-3346.

A permit is active for a maximum of three years so long as the completion of the construction project is pursued in good faith. Additionally in order to keep the permit active, a periodic inspection not more than 180 days apart must be requested and a successful conclusion of an inspection category must be established (such as foundation, rough plumbing, insulation, etc.) .If within a period of 180 days after permit issuance, no inspection is satisfactorily completed or that work is suspended/ abandoned after work is commenced, the permit automatically expires and work cannot commence until the permit is reestablished. One extension of time for a period of 180 days may be granted on an active permit when written request is made to the Building Official and justifiable cause for the extension is demonstrated. Additional permit fees will be assessed to renew or reactive a permit after expiration.

The letter is a courtesy notice to remind you that your permit will expire because the 180 day time limit from the date of issuance, or date of your last successful inspection, is getting near. Follow the instructions on the letter to obtain an inspection, or request an extension if you are not ready for an inspection. Contact us at 707-431-3346 if you believe that you received the letter in error. We may need a copy of your Job Card so the inspection history can be confirmed and the issue resolved.

You can write the Building Official to request a onetime extension. You need to provide your permit number, name, address and phone number. Justifiable cause must be demonstrated in order for an extension request to be granted. You can send your request by email, mail, or drop off at the Building Division.

The Wildland Urban Interface fire areas (also referred to as WUI zones) are specific areas within the City of Healdsburg being identified as High and Moderate Fire Hazard Severity Zones, based on the requirements of the Wildland Urban Interface code adopted by the State of California. All new construction that is located in the WUI zone must be built using ignition resistant materials and methods in accordance with CBC 7A and/or CRC R337.

With few exceptions, all new construction requires the installation of automatic fire sprinklers. Administration of the fire sprinkler regulations are through the Healdsburg Fire Department. Please contact a Fire Prevention Officer at 707-431-3357 with questions. The threshold for additions and remodel projects with regard to when fire sprinklers will need to be included in your project differ between single family/duplex dwellings (R-3) and all other types of buildings or structures. The following definitions identify the thresholds:SUBSTANTIAL ADDITION. All existing buildings or structures not classified as Group R-3 occupancy, any addition of floor area that is greater than twenty-five percent (25%) of the existing gross floor area.SUBSTANTIAL ADDITION, Group R-3. In all existing Group R-3 buildings or structures, any addition of floor area that exceeds fifty percent (50%) of the existing gross floor area.SUBSTANTIAL REMODEL. In all existing buildings or structures, any alteration of floor area that is greater than fifty percent (50%) of the existing gross floor area or meets the definition of a substantial improvement as defined by the 2016 California Building Code.ALTERATION OF FLOOR AREA. For the purpose of this definition, the following criteria shall be considered in determining the percentage of “alteration of floor area.” The 50% referred to under “Substantial Remodel” applies to the entire building’s gross floor area in plan view. The entire room or space where the remodel is taking place will be considered in the calculation, either alone or in combination with any of the following:a. Removing wall finishes and exposing framing of; • Interior wall (where finishes are removed from one side only the room or space to which the framing is exposed will be included in the calculation). • Perimeter exterior wall (one or both sides).b. New wall construction, removing, or repositioning, either interior or perimeter exterior walls, the rooms or spaces on both sides of the wall will be included in the calculation. c. Removal of the ceiling in any room or space to expose rafters trusses, beams, purlins, or floor joists. The floor joists must be within a floor/ceiling assembly. d. Removal of the roof structure (only rooms or spaces that are directly below the removed roof structure will be included in the calculation).e. Other alterations considered substantial by the Fire Code Official (see DSA-AC definition of “Alteration” in the 2016 California Building Code).f. In the non-residential portion of multi-tenant buildings, individual tenant space improvements in which the space is reduced to a “shell” condition, shall require that the future tenant improvement comply with these fire sprinkler requirements.

Items g, h, and i, are not to be included in the alteration of floor area calculation:g. Partial removal of wall finishes necessary for repair due to flooding.h. Removal of floor finishes which exposes floor framing and/or the removal of concrete slab, unless part of a floor/ceiling assembly. i. Relocating plumbing fixtures in bathrooms and/or kitchen.

Healdsburg has amended the Building Code to require that “Class A” fire resistive roof covering must be used when reroofing or on new buildings.Reroof inspections can be scheduled for “next day” and two inspections are typically required, roof tear-off/deck-nail and reroof final. Final approval will be withheld if any of the following are not satisfied:• Spark arrestor approved by the Building or Fire Official must be installed on all chimneys attached to any appliance or fireplace that burns solid fuel (R1003.9.2).• Address numbers for dwellings shall be placed in a position that is visible from the street or road fronting the property and shall not be obscured by parked vehicles or landscaping. Numbers shall not be less than four (4) inches high with a minimum stroke width of one-half (0.5) inch.• Smoke alarms, battery operated type, located in each sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms, and on each additional story of the dwelling including basements and habitable attics.

Requests for deferred plan submittals must be approved by the Building Official and clearly listed on the plans. Plans must be submitted to the building department for review and approval must be granted prior to the installation of any deferred plan items. The following are typically allowed to be deferred plan submittals:• Roof truss calculations and plan.• Fire sprinkler calculations and plan.• Gas supply pipe sizing calculations and plan.

Smoke alarms must be located in each sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms, and on each additional story of the dwelling including basements and habitable attics. Carbon monoxide alarms must be located outside each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms, and on every level of the dwelling including basements.In new construction and alteration projects, smoke and CO alarms must receive their primary power from the building wiring and shall be equipped with battery backup (alarms may be battery operated only where there is no removal of wall or ceiling finishes or there is no access by means of attic, basement or crawlspace). Similarly, alarms must be interconnected in such a manner that the activation of one alarm will activate all the alarms.

YES, a fence otherwise known as a “barrier” is required for private swimming pools. The barrier must be specifically designed to prevent unauthorized entry from adjacent private and/or public property. Every person who owns or is in possession of any land on which there is situated a private swimming pool must secure the pool from unauthorized entry by a barrier constructed as an enclosure that meets or exceeds the requirements of CBC 3109.4.4.3. The barrier shall be in addition to the "seven drowning prevention safety features" required by CBC 3109.4.4.2.

New buildings shall be provided with illuminated means of address identification. Existing buildings shall be provided with illuminated or other means of address identification approved by the Fire Code Official.Numbers for one and two-family dwellings shall be not less than four (4) inches high with a minimum stroke width of one-half (0.5) inch.Numbers for other than one and two-family dwellings shall be not less than twelve (12) inches high with a minimum stroke width of one (1) inch. Suite and unit directional numbers shall be not less than six (6) inches high with a minimum stroke width of three-quarter (0.75) inch. Numbers shall be not less than four (4) inches high with a minimum stroke width of one-half (0.5) inch. The address must be placed in a position that is visible from the street or road fronting the property and shall not be obscured by parked vehicles or landscaping. Where access is by means of a private road and the building cannot be viewed from the public way or when determined by the Fire Code Official, a monument, pole, or other approved illuminated sign or other approved means shall be used to identify the structure.Address numbers shall be Arabic numerals or alphabetic letters. Numbers shall not be spelled out.

The California Green Building Standards Code requires construction waste reduction, disposal and recycling. All non-residential construction projects whenever a permit is required, must recycle and/or salvage for reuse a minimum of 65 percent of the non-hazardous construction and demolition waste.Residential projects where the addition, alteration or substantial remodel increases the building’s area, volume, or size must recycle and/or salvage for reuse a minimum of 65 percent of the non-hazardous construction and demolition waste.

The Public Works Department administers the City’s erosion control program. Best management practices and Low Impact Development information can be obtained by contacting: Dirk Medema, Assoc Civil Eng. / Storm Water Manager 707-431-3344

Yes, demolition of structures or portions thereof requires a permit even if the structure was not originally built with a permit. Several other exceptions apply such as; structures which the construction was exempt from permit, and emergency life safety conditions caused by a disaster.

Per City Code Section 5.04.090: “it shall be unlawful for any person to transact and carry on any business, trade, profession, calling or occupation in the City without first having procured a license from the City”.

All businesses operating in the City of Healdsburg (City) are required to obtain a business license. “Operating” is defined as ALL businesses within City limits including but not limited to fixed site, itinerant, mobile, non-profit, home-based, consignment, subcontractor, & web businesses, as well as business located outside City limits generating revenue from within the City such as contractors with a jobsite within the City, a service provider performing onsite within the City, Farmers Market vendors, etc.A separate license shall be required for each branch establishment/location and for each separate type of business at the same location (i.e., service, retail, wholesale, etc.).

The business license application is to be submitted and approved prior to conducting any business within the City. Those business related to taxi/cab service, massage therapy (without a state license), street vendors, and solicitors must register with the Healdsburg Police Department prior to submitting a business license application.

Because licenses are non-transferrable, businesses that change ownership, ownership structure, or location are required to file an updated business license application. A separate license shall be required for each branch establishment/location and for each separate type of business at the same location (i.e., service, retail, wholesale, etc.).

Taxes are paid in advance of anticipated gross receipts and subject to correction or confirmation the following year. For most businesses, the license fee is based on type of business and gross annual receipts within City limits. Gross receipts are defined as the total revenues generated from all activities within the City during the year, before subtracting any costs or expenses. Please refer to the Tax Chart.Based on the opening day of your business, fees may be prorated on a quarterly basis (excluding the mandatory $4.00 CA SB1186 fee). Contractors are excluded from proration.No portion of a license fee, once paid, is refundable, unless erroneously levied or erroneously calculated.

Upon submission of a completed application and related license fee payment, the Finance Department will process the application and issue the certificate. "Home-Based" and "Within City Limit" applications will be forwarded on to the following departments for code review and clearance:• Building and Planning Department - review and approval of the business zoning, signing, home occupation, etc.• Public Works Department – review and clearance of sewer discharge.o If the business is discharging anything other than domestic wastewater, a Wastewater Discharge Application is required. See the City website for a Discharge Permit Application.• Fire Department – review for fire compliance and hazardous materials. Any hazardous materials used must be listed on the application. See our website for a sample listing of hazardous materials.• Police Department - review for state certification requirements and emergency contact information.

In the event the business is not cleared, the tax license will be revoked and a full refund of the Business Tax Certificate fee will be issued.

Approval for a “Home-Based” and “Out of City Limits” business usually take less than five (5) business days. “Within City Limits” businesses can take between 5 -10 business days depending on the complexity of the business. If additional questions arise during the process, a City representative will contact the business owner and the process may be further delayed.

If the business requires utility services at a City location, submission of a completed business license application is required to obtain a utility connection. To apply for utility service, please complete a service application or call Utility Billing Customer Service at (707) 431-3307. Commercial Utility Application

A carbon monoxide alarm is a stand alone unit which is tested to Underwriters Laboratory (UL) Standard 2034 and has its own built-in power supply and audible device. These units are typically installed in your single family dwelling. A carbon monoxide detector is a system unit which is tested to UL Standard 2075 and is designed to be used with a fire alarm system and receives its power from the fire alarm panel.

Copies of CSFM listing of CO devices can be found on the State Fire Marshal website. Under “Category”, click on the sort bynumber button, then go to the drop down menu (right down arrow) to select “5276-CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS” or “5278-CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS”. Then Click on “Search” and it will list all CO alarms or detectors that are currently approved and listed by the OSFM. State Fire Marshal Website

You may call the Healdsburg Police Department at 707-431-3377, 24 hours a day to report a violation. The code enforcement officer will generally return a call within 4 days. The officer is available for a personal consultation on Mondays and Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please call 707-431-3162 to schedule an appointment. You may also submit a written complaint to the Police Department located at 238 Center Street, Healdsburg CA 95448.

First and foremost, if you have a minor complaint involving a neighbor, we would encourage you to talk to them and see if you can settle the matter without initiating an enforcement action. Your relationship with neighbors is an important part of our community. If you file a complaint with our department, we will not release your information without your permission or in response to a court order. Keep in mind that if a violation proceeds to court, or in response to a subpoena, we are obligated to provide all of the information in our investigative report to the attorney representing the defendant.

We will accept anonymous complaints, but our ability to investigate them may be limited. Legal protections for all parties must be observed and we cannot act on complaints that do not contain sufficient verifiable facts. We will also not be able to update you on the results of our investigation and findings.

Property ownership comes with rewards and risks. Ultimately, a property owner has the final say over the use of their property by tenants and other parties. The property owner is an integral part of solving most issues. They are also legally responsible for code violations that occur on their property.

A cross-connection is any temporary or permanent connection between the potable (e.g., drinking) water system and another source containing non-potable water or other substances that could contaminate your drinking water if a backflow condition occurs.

An example of a temporary connection could be a garden hose attached to a sink or a spigot with the end of the hose submerged in a tub full of detergent. An example of a permanent connection could be the water supply line to the boiler of a hot water heating system. Please call 707-431-3346 for more information

Backflow is just what it sounds like: water flowing in the opposite direction from its normal flow. With the direction of flow reversed (due to changes in pressure), backflow can allow contaminates to enter the potable water system through cross-connections. Without proper backflow devices, something as useful as your garden hose has the potential to contaminate your home’s water supply and the public water system.

A potentially hazardous cross-connection occurs every time someone uses a garden hose sprayer to apply fertilizer or herbicides to their lawn. Without a backflow prevention device between your hose and the spigot, the contents of the hose and anything it is connected to can backflow into the home’s water system and contaminate your drinking water. Please call 707-431-3346 for more information.

Back-pressure is when a pump, elevated tank, boiler, etc. in a private system creates pressure that is greater than the pressure provided by the city water system. This can reverse the direction of flow, pushing contaminates into the drinking water system. Please call 707-431-3346 for more information.

Back-siphonage occurs when there is a sudden reduction in the water pressure in the distribution system, such as if a water main breaks or if the Fire Department uses a large amount of water to fight a fire. When this occurs water flow can be reversed. This can create a suction effect, drawing contaminates into the drinking water system. Please call 707-431-3346 for more information.

Backflow into the public water system can introduce contaminates, making the water in the system unusable or unsafe to drink. Every water supplier has a responsibility to provide water that is usable and safe to drink under all foreseeable circumstances.

Furthermore, consumers generally have absolute faith that water delivered to them through a public water system is always safe to drink. For these reasons, each water supplier must take reasonable precautions to protect its public water system against backflow. Please call 707-431-3346 to learn more.

A backflow prevention assembly is an approved, testable assembly which uses spring loaded valves to prevent potential contaminates from backflowing into the city water system. Find more information about backflow prevention assembly

It is the responsibility of the water customer to ensure that the backflow prevention assembly is in proper operating condition at all times. Backflow prevention assemblies must be tested annually. The City of Healdsburg sends notices to customers reminding them when the annual test is due.

The customer must contact a City of Healdsburg recognized tester to perform the test. If any repair work (including repairs resulting from freeze damage) or maintenance is performed on the assembly, a city recognized tester must retest the assembly immediately and submit the test results to the city. Please call 707-431-3346 for more information.

The Pride in Public Service award has been developed to recognize on-the-job contributions of City individual andteams of employees to encourage and empower employees to work to the fullest extent of their capabilities. To receive it is to know that your work made a difference to the people of Healdsburg – an achievement of which an employee can be proud of.

Efforts that go beyond the scope of responsibilities and job requirements qualify. Demonstration of efficiency, creativity, a high level of service or performance in an outstanding manner. If the nominator feels that an individual or group went beyond what is required then that individual or group can be nominated.

Nominations can be made throughout the year by any member of the public, employee, volunteer, contract employee, appointed or elected official on the nomination form. The nomination must provide factual information and be specific about what makes the nominee(s) outstanding.

Go to the Employee Recognition Program for online nomination forms or they are available in all City departments. If you are a member of the public and would like to nominate an employee, please call 707-431-3322 for a copy of the form.

There is an Employee Recognition Committee who shall select for a one year term of service. The committee will meet to review the nominations and make a recommendation to the City Manager for review prior to presentation of the award.

On January 1, 2017 the State of California will mandate that the 2016 California Fire Code go into effect. During the six-month period preceding this date, local jurisdictions have an opportunity to prepare amendments to the code that reflect local conditions.

The Sonoma County Fire Chiefs (the “Fire Chiefs”) directed a committee of fire and building officials to provide local amendments that could be adopted by the cities or fire districts within the County. A majority of fire officials representing Sonoma County cities participated on the committee. The Fire Chiefs saw a need for local amendments to provide County wide consistent regulations to the construction industry by alleviating obstacles for development. The Healdsburg Fire Marshal and Building Official further amended the code realizing the unique characteristics of Healdsburg’s older residential and downtown commercial buildings.

The State of California will mandate that the 2016 California Fire Code go into effect January 1, 2017. The City of Healdsburg prepared amendments and additions to the codes to reflect local conditions through the Health & Safety Code Sections 17958.5 and 17958.7. Staff has made recommended findings to add, delete and amend specific portions of the mandated code due to local climatic, geological and topographical conditions in order to mitigate the potential damage caused by earthquakes, flooding, erosion, and fires.

The local amendments provide regional consistency with regards to the administrative portions of the codes and fire sprinkler installations. The proposed fire code amendments have very few changes from the previous code adoption and the most significant change is the amendment of the following sections: (The amended code is shown in Italics.)

CHAPTER 2DEFINITIONS

ALTERATION OF FLOOR AREA. For the purpose of this definition, the following criteria shall be considered in determining the percentage of “alteration of floor area.” The 50% referred to under “Substantial Remodel” applies to the entire building’s gross floor area in plan view. The entire room or space where the remodel is taking place will be considered in the calculation, either alone or in combination with any of the following:

1. Removing wall finishes and exposing framing of;a. Interior wall (where finishes are removed from one side only the room or space to which the framing is exposed will be included in the calculation). b. Perimeter exterior wall (one or both sides).2. New wall construction, removing, or repositioning, either interior or perimeter exterior walls, the rooms or spaces on both sides of the wall will be included in the calculation. 3. Removal of the ceiling in any room or space to expose rafters trusses, beams, purlins, or floor joists. The floor joists must be within a floor/ceiling assembly. 4. Removal of the roof structure (only rooms or spaces that are directly below the removed roof structure will be included in the calculation).5. In the non-residential portion of multi-tenant buildings, individual tenant space improvements in which the space is reduced to a “shell” condition, shall require that the future tenant improvement comply with these fire sprinkler requirements.6. Other alterations considered substantial by the Fire Code Official (see DSA-AC definition of “Alteration” in the 2016 California Building Code).

Items 7, 8, and 9, are not to be included in the alteration of floor area calculation:

7. Partial removal of wall finishes necessary for repair due to flooding.8. Removal of floor finishes which exposes floor framing and/or the removal of concrete slab, unless part of a floor/ceiling assembly. 9. Relocating plumbing fixtures in bathrooms and/or kitchen.

SUBSTANTIAL REMODEL. In all existing buildings or structures, any alteration of floor area that is greater than fifty percent (50%) of the existing gross floor area or meets the definition of a substantial improvement as defined by the California Building Code. (see ALTERATION OF FLOOR AREA).

CHAPTER 9FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS

903.6.1 Substantial remodel. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings that undergo a substantial remodel or substantial improvement.

Exceptions: 1. Detached Group U occupancies 1000 sq. ft. or less. 2. Agricultural buildings and private riding arenas as approved by the fire or building code official.3. Detached pool houses up to 1000 sq. ft. in floor area within 50 feet of the pool and limited to a single bathroom. 4. Detached non-combustible motor vehicle fuel dispensing canopies classified as a Group M occupancy.5. Detached Car Ports of non-combustible construction with no habitable space above.6. Alterations or additions made solely for the purpose of complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or as contained in CBC exception # 4 of Section 11B-204.2.7. Partial removal of wall or floor finishes necessary for repair due to flooding.8. Whenever there are practical difficulties involved the Fire Code Official shall have the authority to grant modifications in individual cases provided the modifications do not lessen the health, life and fire safety requirements as permitted in Section 104.8.

The current regulation does not effectively address major remodels, providing appropriate fire and life safety improvements for conditions that exist in Healdsburg, and has not been consistent with other cities and jurisdictions within the County. The occupants of these major remodeled buildings benefit from upgraded plumbing, electrical, ADA compliance, new architectural design, but do not benefit from fire and life safety systems.

The Building Official and Fire Marshal have worked closely on these projects as not to be over burdensome while meeting the intent of the code. The One-Stop process has also been instrumental in helping applicants with early notifications of sprinkler requirements.

Two of the eight exceptions to this amendment include alterations or additions made to comply with the American with Disabilities Act, and alterations and repairs from flood damage. Finally whenever there are practical difficulties involved, the fire code official has the authority to grant modifications in individual cases provided the modifications do not lessen the health, life and fire safety requirements. The proposed fire code amendment is posted on the City website news with facts about sprinklers to provide education on the costs, insurance and benefits of sprinkler systems.

The Healdsburg Fire Department operates out of 1 fire station and maintains minimum on-duty shift staffing of 2 persons and a goal of 3 persons utilizing the 40 hour Fire Engineer and Reserve Firefighters.

We serve the City of Healdsburg and contractual fire protection to the areas of Fitch Mountain and the lower Dry Creek Valley. The Healdsburg Fire Department also responds to all neighboring agencies as part of a boundary less county wide mutual aid system.

The Healdsburg Fire Department has only 1 station and is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If your group or organization would like to tour our facilities, please contact us at 707-431-3360, email information request, or visit the fire station. Tours can be conducted any time between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on any day. Healdsburg Fire Department personnel welcome visitors at any time during those hours for families who wish to bring their children to see the fire trucks. If you call to arrange a tour, please consider the fact that if we must respond to an emergency call, we may not be in the station at the arranged time.

We are in a ready to respond mode 24-7, regardless of location. Our fire engine is both our office and our tool shop. We function as a crew and as such are together to handle emergencies. Each crew member has a role or a function on a particular type of incident, whether fire, EMS, special operations, etc. We do not have formal breaks or times that we are unable to respond to 911 calls. The fire engines are multi-purpose and carry a wide variety of equipment needed to respond to a wide variety of emergencies.

We are never far away from our engine or from each other. We are always ready to respond! We spend 48 hours together per shift. We do eat breakfast, lunch and dinner together, and we are responsible for buying our own food. When picking up groceries, we are still available for emergency calls.

Yes, call 911. Even if you think you put a fire out, it can still be dangerous. We can also help with getting the smoke out of your house after you had a small fire. We have thermal imaging devices (to check for hot spots) and several large volume fans. Go ahead and call 911.

Call us at 707-431-3360. If you cannot afford a smoke detector, we can provide one to you at no charge. Many local businesses have made donations so that we can give out smoke detectors for free. We do not currently supply Carbon Monoxide detectors.

Fire hazards, including hazards in the workplace, hazardous waste or any other problems that may be a fire hazard may be reported to the Healdsburg Fire Department. All information pertaining to complaints is handled in a confidential manner. Please contact us at 707-431-3360, email sadams@ci.healdsburg.ca.us, or visit the fire station.

Children who play with fire place themselves, their families and their neighborhoods at risk. The Healdsburg Fire Departments juvenile fire setter program provides free intervention services to reduce the chances of further fire-play behavior. For additional information, please call 707-431-3360.

The City of Healdsburg conducts Household Hazardous Waste Collection periodically during the year. Please contact the City of Healdsburg at 707-431-3360 or Sonoma County Hazardous Waste Clean Up at 707-565-3375.

Initial weed abatement inspections start in early April. This inspection builds a list of properties that are required to abate the hazards on their properties. A letter is sent out the first week in June requiring the hazards on the property to be abated. A second inspection is completed in early June. If the hazards on the property are not abated by the City Council public hearing occurring the 3rd week in June, forced abatement will occur. The property owner will be billed for the abatement and staff time.

Several units are dispatched to the same incident. The first unit may have arrived on the scene, surveyed the situation and informed the dispatcher that the situation was under control. All other responding units were cancelled and put back into service, ready to take another call. Most likely, when you see an emergency vehicle go Code 3 (lights and siren) through an intersection and then slow down and turn the emergency lights off, they have been cancelled from the call they were going on.

Firefighters work a 48-hour shift on duty, followed by 96-hours off and Firefighters and Chief Officers, who work in the office, work a regular 40 hour week. In addition, the Fire Chief or Division Chief respond to emergency incidents 24 hours per day 365 days per year.

Today's engines are very advanced compared to years past. If the engine is being used for firefighting operations, power from the motor is needed to run the pump to distribute water. During emergencies, lighting plays a key role. The power needed to run lights and emergency flashers draw a significant amount of energy to run. When the engines are in the fire station, they are always plugged in to a shore line that keeps the batteries charged, the engine warm and operating properly so that it is ready to go without warming up.

An accident does not have to look bad to cause injuries needing an emergency response. Firefighters check for fire and environmental hazards like gas, motor oil, or transmission fluid leaks. They also block the scene to protect emergency responders from being hit by cars while they work.

We respond with 2 or 3 personnel and are sometimes stationed closer to your address than the closest ambulance. Our engines have EMTs who can arrive before an ambulance to begin patient care and are equipped with basic life support medical gear and an automatic external defibrillator (AED), which may assist in certain types of cardiac arrest. Each Paramedic Ambulances have 1 Paramedic and 1 EMT on board. By adding additional personnel on the scene, we can do a more efficient, safer job of caring for our patients.

Fire can get behind a wall and travel upwards, which happens often in older homes. Firefighters must open the wall to check for fire. If fire is discovered, the two adjoining wall spaces must also be opened and checked.

This is called venting the roof. There are two basic reasons for this practice. Dangerous gases, heat and dark smoke accumulate in a burning building and it is impossible for firefighters to see in such an environment. When a hole is made in the roof because the building is vented, the smoke and gases escape because heat and smoke rise. It makes it much easier for the firefighters in the building to see. It also reduces the possibilities of back draft and flash over.

Another reason for venting the roof is to see how far the fire has progressed. One of the fastest avenues through which fires spread is the attic. Heat and smoke rise into the attic where the fire can move quickly. Firefighters may go ahead of the fire on a roof, cut holes to access the attic and stop the fire from spreading through the attic.

Fire Department units are dispatched according to information received by the 9-1-1 operator. The Healdsburg Fire Department thinks worst case when they respond to citizens in need of help. In other words, the firefighters are prepared to deal with the worst that could happen. They are fast, well-trained and professional in their response. A GPS computer selects the closest unit to respond to an incident.

The 1st unit on the scene may not be an advanced life support unit (a unit with paramedics). Therefore, such a unit will also be responding. There may be several fire department vehicles on the scene for what appears to be a "simple" incident. However, in emergency services we have learned that if we assume something is "simple," we can be terribly mistaken. We respond rapidly and are prepared to encounter the worst. The winner in these situations will always be the citizen who needs help.

We block traffic lanes for the safety of our personnel and our patients. Blocking extra lanes keep our personnel safe when they go back to our apparatus to get more equipment and help protect the victim we are trying to stabilize.

Yes. The Fire Department has a program to provide free smoke detectors and/or batteries for elderly or disabled residents. To make an appointment to have a detector installed, please call 707-431-3360.

Registration is free. If you need any assistance with signing up or using this new service, please call Utility Billing Customer Service staff at 707-431-3307 and we’ll be happy to walk you through the process.

You may call the Healdsburg Police Department at 707-431-3377, 24 hours a day to report a violation. The code enforcement officer will generally return a call within 4 days. The officer is available for a personal consultation on Mondays and Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please call 707-431-3162 to schedule an appointment. You may also submit a written complaint to the Police Department located at 238 Center Street, Healdsburg CA 95448.

Permitting or allowing graffiti to remain on your property is a public nuisance. Graffiti not only makes our residential neighborhoods and our business communities look unattractive, it affects our property value, business sales, and the community image. Ignoring graffiti gives the mistaken impression that is acceptable and only invites more. It will take awareness support, and participation of all to combat the increasing problem of graffiti.

The City of Healdsburg provides our citizens and those visiting our City the opportunity to access free Wi-Fi via our public access network called wifihealdsburg. Wi-Fi Healdsburg currently covers the downtown area between City Hall and the Police Department (including the Plaza) as well as the Villa, the Swim Center and the Community Center. If available in your location you will see wifihealdsburg listed as one of your hotspots. Simply connect to it as you would any other hotspot (device dependent) and agree to the terms and conditions you are presented when you open your browser. Please note that your connection will expire two hours after you log in, simply reconnect and you will continue to have access.

Parking on public streets is subject to the “first come, first served” rule. Any person can park their vehicle in an available public parking space. The best approach is to seek cooperation from the neighbor. In residential areas, the vehicle must be moved every 72 hours and can not block a driveway.

The downtown business district parking is striped to designate the legal parking spaces. If you park anywhere other than a marked space, you may receive a citation. Each driver is responsible for legally parking their vehicle. Some of the more common citations involve cars using more than one parking space, parking too near an intersection creating a visual hazard, double parking, parked against traffic (wrong side of roadway), backing into spaces or blocking driveways and crosswalks.

The police department has a 0 tolerance approach to persons using disabled parking spaces without a valid placard. This includes the crosshatch area used for wheelchairs adjacent to the main disabled space. The minimum fine is $500. Enforcement of disabled spaces is also authorized on private property.

You are required to hang your placard on the rear view mirror or front dash so that it is visible by the enforcement officer (22511.55 (a) (1) California Vehicle Code). If the placard was not displayed as required, but is otherwise valid, you may bring it to the police department and pay a $25 fee for handling the dismissal of the parking citation (40226 California Vehicle Code). You may also appeal the citation in two ways

The loading zones are marked with yellow curb and have either stenciled letters or a posted sign indicating a loading zone. These spaces are used for delivery or pick up of freight and merchandise. They can also be used to pick up or drop off passengers. The space may be used for no longer than the time necessary to accomplish the task. Our enforcement officer’s look for evidence of active loading and unloading.

You may be asked to produce a bill of lading or other evidence associated with freight pick up or delivery. Passenger pick up and drop off is limited to the time for the person to enter or exit the vehicle. The parking fine is $80.

Backing into a parking space on a public street is prohibited by the California Vehicle Code Section 22502(a) and HCO 12.32.030 CA. This may be waived during special events pursuant to a permit issued by the city. The waiver is only for vehicles utilized by members of the special event. Contractors may apply for an encroachment permit during construction activities.

Pay by Phone by calling the toll-free payment center at 1-800-989-2058

Pay by Mail using a check or money order, payable to the "City of Healdsburg." Include the original citation and your payment in the pre-addressed envelope you received at the time of citation. If needed you may use your own envelope addressed to: City of Healdsburg, Citation Processing Center, PO Box 10479, Newport Beach, CA 92658-0479

We can issues citations for vehicles parked in marked fire lanes, and properly designated disabled spaces. We are unable to help you with customers parking in employee parking spots or other private property rules.

You must make an application for a special event through the police department or community services. This can take 30-60 days. The review by city staff needs to ensure that the proposed activity will not hinder fire/medical services, police responses and traffic safety. You may also be required to have insurance to protect against liability arising from the event.

Alcohol is prohibited on the public streets and sidewalks unless the parties have obtained a waiver by the city council. Depending on the size and nature of the event, you may be required to pay for police services.

The timed parking in the downtown business district is enforced 7 days a week, including Sundays and holidays from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. Specialty parking spaces like loading zones, disabled spaces, passenger zones, bus zones and taxi zones are enforced 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Parking is also prohibited 24 hours a day adjacent to fire hydrants and red zones or other places indicated by signs.

The Community Services Department reserves the right to cancel lasses due to lack of enrollment or for any other unforeseen circumstance. In the event that the Department, or contracted instructor cancels a class or program, enrollees will receive a full refund. Refund requests made by a participant 72 hours prior to the start of class will be issued a full refund minus a $5 administration fee. Requests received less than 72 hours prior to the start of the class will be assessed a $10 administrative fee. Administrative fees are waived if the participant transfers to another class or program. Refund requests made during the course of an activity will be prorated and subject to a $10 administrative fee. Failure to attend a program or 'no shows' will not be granted a refund

In order to ensure trust and maintain the ability to work cooperatively with all members of the community, it is the policy of the Healdsburg Police Department not to detain individuals solely for immigration status violations, nor do members of the department ask for one's immigration status.

To obtain a copy of a report, you must fill out a request form, which is available at the Police Department or on the Police Department website. Once the form is completed and turned in, it will normally take up to ten business days to complete the request. Reports are .11¢ per page. Not all reports are available to be released.

Accident reports are released to parties involved and/or their representative (i.e. insurance company).

Crime and incident reports may be released to:

The victim(s)

An authorized representative of the victim

An Insurance carrier against which a claim has been made and/or might be made

Any person suffering bodily injury, property damage or loss

Reports will not be released if:

The disclosure would endanger the safety of a witness or other involved party.

Endanger the successful completion of the investigation or related investigations or is being prosecuted through the District Attorney.

The name and address of a victim of certain crimes will not be disclosed.

We cannot release your report prior to review by the District Attorney’s Office. You will receive a copy of your report at the time of your 1st court appearance. A copy is also not available through the D.A.’s Office prior to your 1st court appearance.

Juvenile Court has exclusive authority to determine whom and to the extent which information may be released. Release of juvenile information requires permission from the Juvenile Court. Parents of a juvenile victim may receive a copy of certain types of reports only. All others will need to petition the Juvenile Court directly for the release of the record.

The Department does only ink fingerprinting, not Livescan. This service is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. No appointment is necessary. However, it is suggested you call on the day you plan to come in to make sure the service is available and not cancelled. The fingerprint service is $29.00 per card. You must provide your card(s).

Any person(s) currently living in the City of Healdsburg, or have lived in the city at 1 time, as an adult (18 and over), may request a local record clearance letter. To obtain the letter, you will need to provide photo identification, and there is a fee of $29 per letter. It will normally take up to 10 business days to obtain the letter.

You may talk to a supervisor to make an informal commendation or complaint by coming to the department or by calling our main number, 707-431-3377. If you would like to make a formal complaint, a form can be obtained at the Police Department.

The installation was near completion when our IT staff discovered the WiFi network was not working as designed. Motorola realized they had made some significant errors in the design and execution because it did not conduct a proper site survey. Motorola is currently working on design changes to correct these problems.

Unfortunately, we do not have a time line from them as to when the network will be functioning as specified in the original project scope. Staff hopes to receive a plan that will outline the fixes and timeline for implementation within the next week or so.

Note: the city has not made any payments (nor will we!) unless and until significant progress has been made to complete the scope of work contained in our contract. In the meantime, please accept my apologies for the delay.

According to our local municipal code, alcoholic beverages cannot be consumed in public places other than on the premises of licensed retail alcohol establishments. Certain exceptions are made by the City Council for special events in the downtown Plaza Park, such as our Tuesday night concert series. However, for those special events, alcoholic beverages can only be consumed inside the park itself. Healdsburg Municipal Code

No. Everyone is welcome to participate in all Center activities regardless of membership status. Members receive the monthly newsletter, parking permit and discounts on some activities for a nominal annual fee.

All commercial systems must have an AC disconnect. For self-contained residential panels, an integrated disconnect will suffice. For these residential situations, the installation of supplemental disconnects is appreciated, but not required. Larger services (typically 400 amps or greater) will at a minimum need an AC disconnect.

Yes, the we provide free energy audits. Per CPUC CSI guidelines, an audit is required to take part in the CSI program. Customers can call us at 707-431-3122 for a free audit. After the audit, you will receive a report documenting the findings. You are not bound to complete any of the measures in this report, however, please submit this report to us as proof of having completed this step. CPUC CSI Handbook (PDF)

Call the Building Department for your permit's final inspection at 707-431-3346. The Building Department will notify the Electric Department when the inspection passes. Once all paperwork (Interconnection Agreement, 10-year full system warranty, energy audit report, etc.) has been correctly completed and submitted to the Electric Department, we will provide and install the NET-meter.

Per resolution 147-2010, customers electing to be on this account structure currently receive $0.0820 per surplus kWh, paid-out on an annual basis and subject to an annual true-up fee of $30.63. This rate may change at any time. The compensation rate is the same for peak, partial-peak and off-peak periods as well as all seasons.

The City Council recently passed a NET-meter fee. The Planning and Building and Fire departments also assess fees for their involvement. As of 2/20/2013, the city's fees total $414.75 for residential projects and $693.75 for commercial projects.

Any of our rates can become a NET-metered rate. Please see our Rate Eligibility sheet to see which rates you qualify for. To learn more about specific rates, please see our Rate Schedule. Current Rates

Since the utility has to install and maintain infrastructure to support the customer's peak energy flow (regardless of whether it flows in to the customer or out to the grid) demand is billed irrespective of direction. Because of this, customers on a demand-rate who become NET-metered, will likely not see a decrease in their demand-charge.

Storm water can pick up debris, chemicals, dirt, and other pollutants and flow into a storm sewer system or directly into a lake, stream, river, wetland, or coastal water. In the City of Healdsburg, most drainage leads to Foss Creek, which flows into Dry Creek and the Russian River. Anything that enters a storm sewer system is discharged untreated into these water bodies, which we use for swimming, fishing, and providing drinking water.

Report Spills: Contact the City Public Works Department at 707-431-3346 if you observe a discharge or spill of pollutants to storm drains or creeks. If you observe a spill after hours and it presents an immediate hazard, dial 911. The city has on-call staff to respond to these emergencies after hours.

The Healdsburg Police Department generally only tows vehicles that are within city limits. We will on occasion tow a vehicle from the freeway or surrounding area. The California Highway Patrol and Sonoma County Sheriff’s Department also operate within the Healdsburg city limits. If you are unsure who towed your vehicle, first check for the agency name on the top of the citation you received and make direct contact with them.

You may call the Healdsburg Police Department dispatch center at 707-431-3377 if you have the vehicle license plate. We might be able to assist you in locating your vehicle. All police agencies enter towed vehicles in a statewide data base.

Call the Utility Billing Customer Service line at 707-431-3307, Monday through Friday between the hours of 8am and 5pm (excluding holidays), with questions about your bill. In order to protect the privacy of our account holders, staff will only discuss account details and specifics with the account holder(s). Anyone can call and ask general questions about the City’s billing procedures, practices and rates.

There is a new way for you to receive your utility bills, and it’ll save you time. Register for E-Billing and receive your utility bill directly in your email inbox. The E-bill will look exactly like your current paper bill. It’s very user-friendly, easily accessible and available 24/7. This is an easy and cost-effective way for you to receive your monthly utility statements, view and keep track of subsequent utility bills, plus, you can make one-time or sign up for automatic recurring payments online. You’ll have less paper to shuffle and file, and no need to request and wait for duplicate bills because it’s all available online. Registration is free. If you need any assistance with signing up or using this new service, please call Utility Billing Customer Service staff at 707-431-3307 and we’ll be happy to walk you through the process. Once you’ve registered you will be able to view your account history, enroll in AutoPay, edit your payment profiles, enroll additional utility accounts, manage your user settings, and more! Register for E-Billing

Residential customers are billed a fixed monthly service charge per dwelling unit. All non-residential customers are billed a monthly service charge per 100 square-feet of building gross floor area. These charges cover the operation & maintenance of the City’s storm drain system.

All water and electric meters are read monthly. While some meters are still read manually, many meters now have ERT’s (electronic read transmitters) and can be read simply by passing by with a handheld device, and more and more the City is able to read those ERT’s using a fixed network system whereby the reads can be picked up from City offices.

Your account becomes delinquent if your utility bill has not been paid by the due date.Accounts not paid in full by the due date will be subject to a late fee of 1.5%. Reminder Letters are sent 40 days after the bill is issued. If the past due amount is not received by the Reminder Letter due date, a 48-Hour Disconnect Notice will be delivered to the premise. Service will be disconnected if payment is not received by the expiration of the 48-Hour Disconnect Notice.

Please contact the Utility Customer Service line at 707-431-3307 prior to the Reminder Letter due date if payment arrangements are needed. Payment arrangements will not be granted upon issuance of a 48-Hour Disconnect Notice.

Checks or Automatic payments returned by the bank for any reason (including stop payment) are subject to a $25 charge upon the first occurrence. Each subsequent occurrence will be assessed a $35 charge. Upon the second returned payment, the account will be placed on “Cash Only” status for one full year. All fees are due and payable upon repayment of the returned payment. “Cash Only” is defined as cash, credit/debit card, or Money Order.

If you have unexplained higher than usual water usage and suspect you may have a leak, contact the Utility Billing Customer Service line at 707-431-3307. A utility worker will be dispatched to check the water meter and look for indications of a leak.

If you come across a leak and it is on public domain (public property), immediately contact the Utility Response Hotline at 707-431-7000 or Toll Free at 855-755-6586. If the leak is on private property, the property owner is responsible for all related repairs and may require immediate assistance from a plumber or landscaper.

When a water leak has been repaired, the account holder may be entitled to a leak adjustment. Please refer to the City’s Leak Adjustment Policy below:

Adjustments may be available for certain types of water leaks when there is evidence that the leak was not due to willful or negligent acts on the part of the customer. To be considered for a water leak adjustment the following criteria must be met:

1. The water usage in question was excessive compared to normal usage for the same period(s) in the prior year.2. The customer repaired the leak in a timely fashion and can provide proof of the repair.3. The customer is able to describe, in writing, the nature of the leak and the repairs.

Adjustments will be made to the water bills for up to two (2) billing periods based on the difference between the usage billed during the leak and water used the same period(s) last year. Related sewer adjustments will automatically be taken into consideration and sewer usage billed or upcoming SSA calculations adjusted accordingly.

If a water leak is reported and the excessive water usage has affected the sewer usage billed, you may be eligible for a sewer adjustment in addition to the water adjustment. If so, the billing department will automatically adjusted the sewer usage at the same time the water adjustment is issued.

• Pay online using your Visa/MasterCard card or bank account at no additional cost to you!• Mail (check or credit/debit card) payments with the attached stub in the enclosed envelope to P.O. Box 787, Healdsburg, CA 95448. Make checks payable to the “City of Healdsburg”.• Pay over the phone using your Visa/MasterCard or bank account by calling our customer service line at 707-431-3307. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8am – 5pm, excluding holidays. • Pay in person during business hours at City Hall, 401 Grove Street, Healdsburg. For your convenience after hours, a drop box is located in parking lot as well as affixed to the north side wall of the building.Pay On-Line Now

By registering for E-Billing you will automatically become eligible to participate in AutoPay, registration is free. Simply sign up for e-billing in the Utility Billing and Customer Service section of the City’s website. Once E-Billing enrollment is complete you will be prompted to setup a payment profile and begin using AutoPay. If you need any assistance with signing up or using this new service, please call Utility Billing Customer Service staff at 707-431-3307 and we’ll be happy to walk you through the process. Register for E-Billing and AutoPay

While many cities do not offer the CARE program to their residential utility customers, The City of Healdsburg CARE program was adopted by the City Council on June 1, 2009. Eligibility for the CARE program is based on household income and if qualified each household can receive a 25% discount on the first two (2) energy tiers of electric charges, 15% on water and 20% on sewer and storm water charges. Pick up an application at the Utility Billing Counter at City Hall or print one from our website. CARE Application

The City offers a discount program to residential utility customers who own plug-in electric vehicles that provides a 15% discount on electric rates for qualifying customers. Pick up an application at the Utility Billing Counter at City Hall or print one from our website.Plug-In Vehicle Discount Application

If you believe that you have been billed incorrectly, send the bill and a statement supporting your claim to:

The City of HealdsburgAttention: Finance Director401 Grove StreetHealdsburg, CA 95448

Complaints or disputed bills will be rejected when the dispute appears to be over matters such as quality of a utility service, general levels of rates, pending rate applications and sources of water and power.

New accounts or transfers of service require a completed application of service and a possible deposit. Business accounts must also have a City of Healdsburg Business License prior to establishing a utility account. Please call customer service at 707-431-3307 if you have any questions. Commercial Application

The City of Healdsburg refers qualifying low-income customers to the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). This program has funds to help you pay 1 or 2 months of electricity per year. For more information call HEAP at (707)495-4417 or (800)233-4480, visit their offices at 1100 Coddingtown Center, Suite 1, Santa Rosa CA, print an application below, or visit the Utility Billing Counter at City Hall. HEAP Application

An account holder(s) is the only individual(s) permitted to make changes or inquiries on an account. If an account holder is incapacitated, deceased, or otherwise unable to authorize a change to the account, an authorized agent who provides proof of Power of Attorney may make changes on the account holder’s behalf. Privacy rules are strictly adhered as required per the California Public Utility Code.

The State Water Resources Control Board, which administers the City’s water supplypermit, will maintains sensible water restrictions such as:• Hosing off sidewalks, driveways and other hardscapes• Washing automobiles with hoses not equipped with a shut off nozzle• Using non-recirculated water in a fountain or other decorative water feature• Watering lawns in a manner that causes runoff, or within 48 hours after measurableprecipitation• Irrigating ornamental turf on public street medians

In the Bathroom - Replace your old shower head with a good-quality, high-efficiency shower head.- Check for and repair leaks in your pipes, faucets and toilets.- Don’t use your toilet as a waste basket. Use a fill cycle regulator to decrease the fill of water into your bowl.

In the Kitchen & Laundry - Only run your dishwasher and washing machines when they are full.- Instead of running the faucet to wait for cold water, fill a pitcher of water with drinking water and store it in your refrigerator.

Outdoors - When washing your car, use soap and water from a bucket.- Use a hose with a shut-off nozzle for the final rinse only. - Use a broom instead of a hose to clean your driveway.- Landscape with plants that require low water consumption.- Water your lawn no more than every third day, and only during the cool time of the day in the morning or evening.- Adjust the sprinklers so only the lawn and plants are being watered, not your house, the sidewalk or the street.

Free water conservation devices are available at the Community Development Center (435 Allan Ct.)

- All new residential, commercial, office, industrial, public or quasi-public projects with landscaping- All additions/remodels to existing residential, commercial, office, industrial, public or quasi-public projects with new or replaced contractor-installed landscapes of 2,500 square feet or more- All additions/remodels to existing residential, commercial, office, industrial, public or quasi-public projects with new or replaced property owner-installed landscapes of 5,000 square feet or more